Dean of Admissions William R. Fitzsimmons ’67 said the recent expansions in the financial aid program, which will result in nearly $100 million given to undergraduates next year, have attracted a larger and stronger applicant pool.

“We have the ability to reach out to outstanding students not just in the states but all over the world,” he said.

Fitzsimmons also pointed to increased recruiting efforts by admissions officers who are beginning their recruiting efforts earlier each year.

This month, Harvard’s admissions officers will visit 55 cities across the country to begin recruiting for the Class of 2007.

“The campaign to improve physical facilities is a major draw,” she said. “The residential system is comfortable and complete.”

Students who received good news yesterday will descend on Harvard later this month during pre-frosh weekend, scheduled for April 20-22. The admitted students must send their decision to Harvard’s admissions office by May 1.

—Staff writer Robert M. Annis can be reached at annis@fas.harvard.edu.